Trump announces Venezuela operation

U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. government is considering the possibility of a ground operation against Venezuela. He emphasized that the efforts would target not only hostile facilities but also people 'bringing drugs and killing our people'.

In response, Venezuela's Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez urged Americans to refrain from actions that could lead to conflict and avoid mistakes that could harm civilians. He noted that the country's armed forces are ready to defend their territory.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro reported that 80–85% of the country's population is ready to take up arms to defend their homeland. According to him, the population's readiness is a key factor in national security.

The situation continues to unfold against the backdrop of prolonged strained relations between Venezuela and the United States, with both sides regularly accusing each other of aggression and sabotage.

Context

Venezuela and the U.S. face tense relations in the international community, which intensified after the change of power in Venezuela and continue with sanctions and diplomatic conflicts.